State PCS - Madhya Pradesh (MP PCS)

• 07 May 2025

Fire at Ujjain Mahakaleshwar Temple

Why in News? 

On 5 May 2025, a fire engulfed the Mahakal Lok Corridor in the Mahakaleshwar Temple campus in Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh. 

 

Key Points 

• Mahakaleshwar Temple: 
  • Religious Significance: 
    • Mahakaleshwar Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and holds immense religious importance in Hinduism. 
    • It is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas—the most sacred abodes of Shiva. 
    • The idol of Mahakaleshwar is unique as it is Dakshina Mukhi (facing south), unlike other Jyotirlingas. 
• Location: 
  • The temple is situated in Ujjain, an ancient city in Madhya Pradesh. 
  • It lies beside the Rudra Sagar lake, enhancing its spiritual ambience. 
  • The temple complex spans five levels and draws huge crowds, especially during Maha Shivaratri. 
• Architectural Features: 
  • The temple features a spacious courtyard adorned with intricate sculptures. 
  • Its design reflects Chalukya, Maratha, and Bhumija architectural styles. 
  • The foundation and platform are made of stone, while the upper structures rest on strong pillars and plasters. 
  • It houses lingam sculptures of Mahakaleshwar and images of Ganesh (west), Parvati (north), and Karttikeya (east) within the sanctum. 
  • A sarvatobhadra-style tank is also part of the temple complex. 

 Shri Mahakal Lok Corridor 

• Mahakal Maharaj Mandir Parisar Vistar Yojna is a plan for the expansion, beautification, and decongestion of the Mahakaleshwar temple and its adjoining area in Ujjain district. 
• Under the plan, the Mahakaleshwar temple premises of around 2.82 hectares is being increased to 47 hectares, which will be developed in two phases by the Ujjain district administration. 
  • This will include the 17 hectares of Rudrasagar lake. 
• The project is expected to increase annual footfall in the city from the current 1.50 crore to nearly three crores.